Michael van Gerwen is, without doubt, one of the greatest players to ever set foot on the oche. Since bursting onto the scene in 2012, the Dutchman has claimed an impressive haul of major PDC titles, often with unmatched dominance. Yet even for a player of his caliber, title droughts are inevitable — and the numbers prove just how competitive modern darts has become.
A New Record: 728 Days Without a Major Title
Van Gerwen’s longest dry spell came in recent years, with a staggering 728 days between his victory at the 2023 World Series of Darts Finals and his return to glory at the 2025 edition of the same event. Despite consistently playing at a high level during that stretch, “Mighty Mike” often fell just short — whether through missed chances or running into opponents at their very best.
The drought highlights the fierce competition now dominating the circuit. Rising stars like Luke Humphries, Gerwyn Price, and Luke Littler have reshaped the landscape, frequently battling Van Gerwen in the latter stages of tournaments. Still, Van Gerwen’s 2025 win proved that even after nearly two years without a major, he remains a force to be reckoned with.
The Pandemic Years: A 561-Day Gap
The second-longest break in Van Gerwen’s major-winning timeline came during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Between his 2020 Players Championship Finals win and his triumph at the 2022 Premier League Darts, 561 days passed without a major title.
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It was a period of uncertainty and disruption, with altered tournament formats and limited crowds. For Van Gerwen — a player known for his packed schedule and rhythm — the irregularity posed a challenge. But as ever, he bounced back, silencing doubters by lifting the Premier League trophy and reaffirming his status at the top.
Early-Career Test: A 284-Day Wait in 2014
The third-longest gap in Van Gerwen’s career dates back to 2014, just after he won his first world title. At the time, the 24-year-old was under pressure to prove that his breakthrough wasn’t a one-off. It took 284 days before he captured another major — the World Grand Prix — and in doing so, solidified his place among the elite.
Though minor in hindsight, that early gap was a key moment in his journey: a test of mental strength and consistency that he passed with flying colors.
Longest Gaps Between PDC Major Titles – Michael van Gerwen
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728 days – 2023 World Series of Darts Finals ➝ 2025 World Series of Darts Finals
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561 days – 2020 Players Championship Finals ➝ 2022 Premier League Darts
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284 days – 2014 World Championship ➝ 2014 World Grand Prix
A Champion’s Mentality
What separates Van Gerwen from so many of his peers is not just talent, but tenacity. While many players struggle to regain form after long dry spells, Van Gerwen consistently finds a way back — often stronger, more focused, and more dangerous than before.
His ability to rebound from setbacks, reset his mindset, and fight his way back to the winner’s circle is part of what makes him a legend of the sport. For fans of darts, few things are more compelling than watching Van Gerwen rise again — no matter how long the wait.
